Top 20 Most Expensive Gemstones

Gemstones are made up of a variety of minerals, rocks, and organic materials. With more than 300 gemstones currently documented and more than 2000 minerals, there are bound to be some that are much rarer and more precious than diamonds. In this article, we will explore the top 20 most expensive gemstones in the world, based on their price per carat. These gemstones range from the rare and valuable Tanzanite to the stunning and sought-after Red Diamond.

1. Tanzanite - Rare and Valuable Gemstone

Tanzanite is a highly sought-after gemstone known for its captivating blue hue. This rare gemstone is found exclusively in northern Tanzania, making it one of the most geologically specific gemstones in the world. With its limited supply and increasing demand, tanzanite has become an incredibly valuable gemstone in recent years.

The beauty of tanzanite lies in its deep blue color, which is often compared to that of a blue sapphire. It is this remarkable color that makes tanzanite so desirable for jewelry enthusiasts and collectors. The rarest and most prized tanzanite stones are those with a pure blue color that rivals that of the finest sapphires.

When it comes to the price per carat, high-quality tanzanite can fetch an average price of €1,037. The limited availability of tanzanite, combined with its unique color and brilliance, contributes to its high value in the gemstone market. As supplies continue to dwindle, the price of tanzanite is expected to rise even further, making it a truly exceptional investment.

The Value of Tanzanite

What sets tanzanite apart from other gemstones is not only its rarity but also its exceptional beauty. With its striking blue color and remarkable luster, tanzanite has become a symbol of elegance and luxury. Whether set in a ring, necklace, or earrings, tanzanite has the ability to captivate and mesmerize.

As the supply of tanzanite continues to diminish, its value is expected to increase steadily over time. This makes it not only a valuable addition to any jewelry collection but also a wise investment choice. With its unique beauty and scarcity, tanzanite will always be a gemstone that holds both aesthetic and financial value.

Gemstone	Average Price per Carat (€)
Tanzanite	€1,037
Jeremejevite	€1,729
Fire Opal	€1,987
Poudretteite	$2,593
Demantoid Garnet	€2,851
Black Opal	$3,024
Benitoite	€3,458
Sapphire	€3,458 - €5,188
Ruby	€12,961

 

2.Jeremejevite

Jeremejevite is a highly sought-after gemstone known for its exceptional beauty and rarity. This stunning aluminum-bearing borate mineral was first discovered in Siberia in 1883 and has captivated gem enthusiasts ever since. With a hardness similar to quartz, jeremejevite is suitable for jewelry making and is highly valued for its unique characteristics.

The average price per carat for jeremejevite is €1,729, making it one of the most expensive gemstones in the world. Its scarcity and exquisite appearance contribute to its high market value. The mesmerizing color variations of jeremejevite, ranging from pale blue to sky blue and greenish-blue, add to its allure and make it a favorite among collectors and connoisseurs.

When it comes to jeremejevite, the quality of the stone greatly impacts its price. Gemstones with impeccable clarity, color intensity, and larger carat weights tend to command higher prices. Due to the limited availability of jeremejevite, acquiring a piece of this extraordinary gemstone is a privilege reserved for those who appreciate its unparalleled beauty and are willing to invest in its exclusivity.

In the world of gemstones, jeremejevite stands as a testament to nature's ability to create something truly extraordinary. Its rarity, combined with its stunning visual appeal, has positioned jeremejevite as one of the most coveted and expensive gemstones in the market.

Characteristics	Details
Mineral Composition	Aluminum-bearing borate mineral
Hardness	Similar to quartz
Color	Pale blue, sky blue, greenish-blue
Average Price per Carat	€1,729

 

3. Fire Opal - Expensive Gemstones with Unique Beauty

Fire Opal is an exquisite and highly sought-after gemstone that captivates with its vibrant colors and unique beauty. This gemstone, which is not technically a mineral but rather a mineraloid, is a hydrated form of silica or silicon dioxide. What sets Fire Opal apart from other gemstones is its exceptional play of colors, which can range from fiery reds and oranges to brilliant yellows.

The mesmerizing play of colors in Fire Opal is caused by the presence of trace amounts of iron oxide and other impurities. The intensity and variety of colors can vary depending on the environmental conditions during its formation. Fire Opal is particularly treasured for its exceptional transparency, which allows light to pass through and enhance its vibrant hues.

When it comes to pricing, Fire Opal is considered one of the more expensive gemstones in the world. The average price per carat for Fire Opal is €1,987. This reflects its rarity and the unique combination of its fiery colors and exceptional transparency. The high demand for Fire Opal among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts further contributes to its elevated price.

Properties of Fire Opal:

• Chemical Composition: Hydrated silica (SiO2·nH2O)
• Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale
• Color: Range of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Origin: Primarily found in Mexico, but also in other parts of the world

Fire Opal is a gemstone that effortlessly combines rarity, vibrant colors, and exceptional transparency to create a truly captivating and valuable gemstone. Whether worn as a centerpiece in a piece of jewelry or adorning a collection, Fire Opal is sure to make a statement and evoke awe with its unique beauty.

4. Poudretteite - One of the Most Expensive Gemstones

Poudretteite is a truly exquisite gemstone that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful pink hue and exceptional rarity, it has become one of the most expensive gemstones in the world. Poudretteite was discovered in Quebec, Canada in the 1960s and remains a prized gemstone due to its captivating color and limited availability.

When it comes to pricing, poudretteite demands a high value in the market. The average price per carat for this gemstone is $2,593, making it a highly coveted and exclusive addition to any collection. Its scarcity, coupled with its alluring pink color, contributes to its steep price tag.

What makes poudretteite even more special is its unique composition. It belongs to the silicate mineral group and has a Mohs hardness of 5, making it relatively durable and suitable for jewelry making. Its exceptional color and durability make poudretteite a truly remarkable gemstone that is treasured by gem enthusiasts around the world.

Gemstone	Price per Carat
Diamond	$4,000 - $50,000
Tanzanite	$1,037
Jeremejevite	$1,729
Fire Opal	$1,987
Poudretteite	$2,593

As with any valuable gemstone, the price of poudretteite can vary depending on factors such as size, color, and clarity. However, its reputation as one of the most expensive gemstones remains steadfast. Whether as a centerpiece in a stunning piece of jewelry or as a treasured addition to a gemstone collection, poudretteite continues to captivate with its beauty and rarity.

5. Demantoid Garnet

Demantoid garnet is a remarkable green variety of andradite garnet that was discovered in Russia in the 1800s. It is one of the rarest and most valuable garnets and is typically found in smaller sizes. The gemstone's name comes from the Dutch word "demant," meaning diamond-like, which refers to its high brilliance and fire.

One of the distinguishing features of demantoid garnet is its high refractive index, which gives it exceptional sparkle. Its vibrant green color, ranging from yellowish-green to deep emerald green, is coveted by gemstone enthusiasts. Demantoid garnet is also known for its horsetail inclusions, needle-like formations that resemble a horse's tail and further enhance its uniqueness.

Properties of Demantoid Garnet

• Color: Vibrant green, ranging from yellowish-green to deep emerald green
• Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale
• Refractive Index: 1.888 - 1.889
• Specific Gravity: 3.82 - 3.85
• Origin: Primarily Russia, but also found in other locations such as Namibia and Iran

 

The value of demantoid garnet is determined by several factors, including color, clarity, size, and the presence of horsetail inclusions. Fine-quality demantoid garnets with intense green color, high clarity, and well-defined horsetail inclusions command the highest prices in the market. The average price per carat for demantoid garnet is €2,851, making it one of the most expensive gemstones.

Characteristics	Value
Color	Intense green
Clarity	High clarity
Size	Smaller sizes
Horsetail Inclusions	Well-defined horsetail inclusions
Average Price per Carat	€2,851

Demantoid garnet is a highly sought-after gemstone by collectors and jewelry connoisseurs alike. Its rarity, exceptional brilliance, and unique horsetail inclusions make it a true treasure in the world of gemstones.

6. Black Opal – $3,024 for Quality Stones

Black opal is one of the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. It is primarily found in Lightning Ridge, Australia, making it highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. What sets black opal apart from other opals is its stunning play of colors, with vibrant flashes and patterns that mesmerize the eye. The deep dark body tone of black opals enhances the brilliance and intensity of these colors, creating a truly captivating gemstone.

When it comes to pricing, high-quality black opals can command a significant price tag. The average price per carat for these top-notch stones is $3,024. This reflects the rarity and exceptional beauty of black opal, making it an investment-worthy gemstone.

Characteristics	Value
Color	Vibrant play of colors
Origin	Lightning Ridge, Australia
Average Price per Carat	$3,024

Due to its rarity and value, black opal is highly sought-after by gem collectors and jewelry designers alike. Its unique color play and captivating beauty make it a stunning centerpiece for any piece of jewelry. Whether set in a ring, necklace, or earrings, black opal is sure to draw attention and create an elegant and luxurious look.

When considering investing in black opal, it is essential to seek out reputable sources and gemstone experts. This ensures that you are purchasing genuine, high-quality stones that will retain their value over time. With its rarity, exceptional beauty, and investment potential, black opal truly represents the pinnacle of expensive gemstones.

7. Benitoite – €3,458 per carat

Benitoite is a stunning and highly sought-after gemstone known for its brilliant blue color. It was first discovered in California and is often referred to as the "blue diamond" due to its exceptional beauty. Benitoite is a rare gemstone, making it one of the most expensive gemstones in the world.

The average price per carat for benitoite is €3,458, making it a highly exclusive and valuable gemstone. Its unique blue hue, coupled with its scarcity, contributes to its high price. Benitoite is often faceted to enhance its brilliance and is a popular choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

When investing in benitoite, it is important to consider factors such as color, clarity, and carat weight. The most valuable benitoite gemstones exhibit a vibrant and intense blue color. Clarity is also crucial, as any inclusions or imperfections can significantly affect the gemstone's value.

Whether you're captivated by its mesmerizing blue color or see it as a potentially valuable investment, benitoite is undoubtedly one of the most expensive and captivating gemstones in the world.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Brilliant blue
Price per carat	€3,458
Origin	California, United States
Hardness	6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale
Transparency	Transparent to translucent

8. Sapphire - Expensive Gemstones with a Luxurious Appeal

Sapphire is one of the most highly regarded and sought-after gemstones in the world. With its stunning array of colors, durability, and timeless beauty, it has captured the hearts of gem enthusiasts for centuries. From deep blue to vibrant pink, sapphires offer a wide range of hues that cater to various preferences and styles.

Various Colors and Price Points

Sapphires are not limited to the iconic blue hue typically associated with the gemstone. While blue sapphires are highly valued, sapphires can also be found in captivating shades of pink, yellow, green, and even colorless. Each color variation holds its own unique charm and allure, making sapphires a versatile choice for jewelry lovers.

The price of sapphires can vary greatly depending on factors such as color intensity, clarity, size, and overall quality. Blue sapphires, especially those with a deep, vivid color, command higher prices. On average, sapphires can range from €3,458 to €5,188 per carat, making them a luxurious investment for those who appreciate their timeless elegance.

Price Ranges for Various Sapphire Colors

Color	Price Range (per carat)
Blue	€3,458 - €5,188
Pink	€3,458 - €5,188
Yellow	€3,458 - €5,188
Green	€3,458 - €5,188
Colorless	€3,458 - €5,188

9. Ruby – € 12,961 per carat

Ruby is known for its vibrant red color and is considered one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. This precious gemstone has captivated civilizations throughout history, admired for its beauty and symbolism. Rubies are often associated with passion, love, and power, making them a popular choice for exquisite jewelry pieces.

What sets rubies apart is their remarkable durability, second only to diamonds. With a high hardness rating on the Mohs scale, rubies are highly resistant to scratches and can withstand the test of time. This, combined with their intense red hue, makes them truly exceptional.

The price per carat for rubies can vary significantly based on various factors. One of the most crucial factors is color, with deep red rubies commanding higher prices. Rubies from certain coveted locations, such as Burma (now Myanmar), are highly valued due to their rich color and exceptional quality.

Factors influencing the price of rubies	Price impact
Color	Significant
Origin	Significant
Clarity	Minor
Size	Minor

When purchasing rubies, it's essential to consider factors such as color, origin, clarity, and size to ensure you're investing in a high-quality gemstone. While the price per carat for ruby can reach up to €12,961, it's important to remember that the value of a ruby goes beyond its monetary worth. Each ruby tells a unique story, making it a truly special gemstone.

10. Blue Diamond - Particularly the Hope Diamond

The world of gemstones is adorned with treasures that not only captivate the eye but also hold historical significance. Standing prominently in this realm is the Blue Diamond, with the Hope Diamond being its most illustrious representative. This diamond, renowned for its deep blue hue with a subtle hint of gray, weighs an impressive 45.52 carats. Originating from the Golconda mines in India, a region famous for producing some of the world's most legendary diamonds, the Hope Diamond carries a storied past.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Deep blue with a hint of gray
Weight	45.52 carats
Origin	India, Golconda mines
Known For	Cursed reputation, historical significance

Beyond its captivating beauty, the Hope Diamond is shrouded in mystery and superstition, earning a reputation for bringing misfortune to its owners. This diamond, now housed in the Smithsonian Institution, continues to be a symbol of both exquisite craftsmanship and enigmatic tales from the pages of history.

11. Pink Star Diamond - One of the Most Valuable Pink Diamonds

Among the spectrum of diamonds, the Pink Star Diamond emerges as a beacon of luxury, renowned for its vivid pink hue that enchants all who behold it. Weighing a staggering 59.60 carats, this diamond is a testament to the rarity of intensely colored pink diamonds. Mined in Africa, the Pink Star Diamond has etched its name in history through a record-breaking auction price, underlining the high value placed on these mesmerizing gems.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Vivid pink
Weight	59.60 carats
Origin	Mined in Africa
Known For	Record-breaking auction price, intense color

The Pink Star Diamond stands as a symbol of opulence, a rare and valuable jewel that transcends the conventional allure of diamonds, adding a touch of unparalleled elegance to the world of gemstones.

12. Blue Moon Diamond - Known for Its Rarity and Size

The Blue Moon Diamond emerges as a celestial rarity in the world of gemstones. Bathed in a vivid blue hue, this diamond weighs an impressive 12.03 carats, making it a substantial presence among its counterparts. Mined in the rich terrains of South Africa, the Blue Moon Diamond distinguishes itself not only through its rare blue color but also its significant size, setting it apart as one of the most coveted gemstones in the world.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Vivid blue
Weight	12.03 carats
Origin	Mined in South Africa
Known For	Rare blue color, substantial size

What renders the Blue Moon Diamond truly exceptional is the convergence of its rare coloration and considerable carat weight, making it a prized possession in the discerning world of gemstone enthusiasts.

13. Jadeite - The Most Expensive Jade

In the realm of precious gemstones, Jadeite reigns supreme as the most expensive jade. Possessing an imperial green color that epitomizes the pinnacle of quality, Jadeite is a gemstone of unparalleled beauty and cultural significance. Its transparency, ranging from translucent to semi-translucent, enhances its allure. Originating from Myanmar (Burma), the mines of which are renowned for producing the finest jadeite, this gemstone is a testament to the scarcity and desirability of top-quality jade.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Imperial green
Transparency	Translucent to semi-translucent
Origin	Myanmar (Burma)
Known For	Imperial green color, cultural significance

Jadeite, beyond its aesthetic appeal, holds cultural significance, particularly in Asian cultures, where it is revered as a symbol of purity, wisdom, and good fortune. Its scarcity and association with cultural traditions elevate Jadeite to a position of unparalleled value in the gemstone hierarchy.

14. Red Diamonds - Extremely Rare and Valuable

The rarest of the rare, Red Diamonds stand as a testament to the extraordinary nature of the world's most valuable gemstones. Characterized by an intense red color, these diamonds are exceptionally scarce and derive their rarity from their limited availability. Originating from sources such as Australia, Brazil, and India, the red diamond's scarcity contributes to its coveted status in the realm of gemstone connoisseurs.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Intense red
Origin	Australia, Brazil, and India
Known For	Rare red color, scarcity

The allure of Red Diamonds lies not only in their mesmerizing color but also in the challenge of acquiring them. Their rarity and the unique intensity of their red hue make them a prized possession for collectors and investors alike, solidifying their place as one of the most sought-after and valuable gemstones in the world.

15. Musgravite - A Rare and Exquisite Gemstone

The world of gemstones unveils another marvel with Musgravite, a gemstone that stands as a testament to rarity and beauty. This exceptionally rare gem, named after the Musgrave Range in Australia, boasts a captivating color palette that ranges from green to grayish purple. With a scarcity that surpasses even diamonds, Musgravite is a collector's dream, embodying the essence of exclusivity.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Green to grayish purple
Rarity	Extremely rare
Origin	Musgrave Range, Australia
Known For	Rarity, unique color spectrum

Musgravite's rarity, coupled with its unique color spectrum, elevates it to a distinguished position among gemstones, appealing to those who seek the extraordinary in their collections.

16. Alexandrite - The Chameleon of Gemstones

As a chameleon among gemstones, Alexandrite exhibits a mesmerizing color-changing property, shifting from green in daylight to a purplish-red under incandescent light. Mined primarily in Russia, Sri Lanka, and Brazil, this gemstone is celebrated for its unique optical characteristics. With a history dating back to the Russian tsars, Alexandrite carries a regal allure that extends to its rarity and captivating play of colors.

Characteristics:

Characteristic	Details
Color Change	Green in daylight, purplish-red under incandescent light
Origin	Russia, Sri Lanka, Brazil
Known For	Unique color-changing property, historical significance

Alexandrite's mystical ability to change color, combined with its historical significance, makes it a prized possession for those who appreciate the enchanting interplay of light within a gemstone.

17. Blue Garnet - Nature's Astonishing Color Change

Nature surprises once again with the Blue Garnet, a gemstone known for its astonishing color change. Exhibiting hues ranging from blue-green in daylight to purplish-red under incandescent light, this gemstone is a marvel of nature. Mined in locations like Madagascar, Russia, and Tanzania, Blue Garnet's ability to transition between colors adds a layer of intrigue and uniqueness to its allure.

Characteristic	Details
Color Change	Blue-green in daylight, purplish-red under incandescent light
Origin	Madagascar, Russia, Tanzania
Known For	Nature's color change phenomenon

Blue Garnet's rarity, coupled with its remarkable color-changing phenomenon, positions it as a captivating gemstone that intrigues and enchants those fortunate enough to encounter its ethereal beauty.

18. Emerald - The Green Majesty

Emeralds, with their lush green hue, have long been revered as symbols of luxury and opulence. Mined in countries such as Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil, high-quality emeralds are characterized by their rich color and transparency. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, emeralds hold cultural and historical significance, often adorning the crowns and jewelry of royalty throughout the ages.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Lush green
Transparency	Transparent to translucent
Origin	Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and other locations
Known For	Rich color, cultural and historical significance

The Green Majesty of emeralds lies not only in their vibrant color but also in the stories they carry, making them a timeless and cherished gemstone that continues to captivate generations.

19. Blue Sapphire - The Regal Gem

Blue Sapphires, with their deep and vibrant blue color, reign as regal gems in the world of precious stones. Originating from various locations such as Sri Lanka, Kashmir, and Myanmar, these gems are esteemed for their rich hues. Known for adorning the jewelry of royalty, blue sapphires symbolize wisdom, nobility, and divine favor.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Deep and vibrant blue
Origin	Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Myanmar, and other locations
Known For	Regal blue color, historical significance

The rich and timeless allure of Blue Sapphires has made them a staple in royal jewelry and a cherished gemstone for those who appreciate the elegance of deep blue hues.

20. Ruby - The Gem of Passion

Rubies, with their fiery red brilliance, are the gems of passion and vitality. Mined in countries such as Myanmar, Mozambique, and Thailand, rubies are esteemed for their intense color and exceptional hardness. Symbolizing love and power, rubies have adorned the crowns and jewelry of rulers throughout history, adding a touch of fiery elegance to royal treasures.

Characteristic	Details
Color	Fiery red
Hardness	Exceptionally hard
Origin	Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand, and other locations
Known For	Passionate red color, historical significance

Rubies, with their vibrant red hue and historical significance, continue to be a gemstone of choice for those seeking to convey a sense of passion and power through their jewelry.

Conclusion

In essence, the realm of gemstones unveils a captivating assortment of rare and precious treasures, from the enchanting blue hues of tanzanite to the fiery red allure of the ruby. Beyond their aesthetic splendor, these gems embody exclusivity, commanding prices ranging from €1,037 to €12,961 per carat. Whether you're a devoted collector or a connoisseur of fine jewelry, these top 20 most valuable gemstones perpetuate an enduring charm.

Each gem, be it the resplendent sapphire or the beguiling benitoite, narrates a tale of natural brilliance and scarcity. In the meticulous evaluation of gemstones, factors like color, clarity, and size dictate their worth, with prices subject to individual appraisal. Nevertheless, the constant thread weaving through these prized gemstones is their testament to Earth's innate marvels and the unparalleled beauty they unveil.

Whether you revel in the sparkle of sapphires, the brilliance of benitoite, or the magnetic allure of black opals, these gemstones epitomize opulence and sophistication. The world of gemstones stands as a treasury, housing rare and invaluable creations that captivate both the eye and the imagination.